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German Social Democrat Paper Adds to Calls for Social Media Curbs for ...
SPD demands technical blocks for under-14s, youth versions without addictive features for 14–16-year-olds, and default opt-outs for algorithmic feeds over 16, citing youth protection needs.
- The German center-left Social Democratic Party is calling for a ban on social media for children under 14, with SPD leader Lars Klingbeil saying clear rules are needed.
- Concerned lawmakers say protecting young people from a flood of hatred and violence online is a top priority, and a government-appointed special commission last year provides the review framework.
- The proposal would use the EU Digital Identity Wallet to verify users with legal guardian approval, mandate youth versions for children aged 14–16 without algorithmic feeds, and impose sanctions on social media platforms violating access and algorithm rules.
- Pressure from both coalition parties makes federal government action more likely, with conservative coalition partners’ under-16 ban due for discussion this week, but German states must negotiate consistent rules under the federal system.
- International precedent and a scheduled commission report frame the debate, as last year Australia banned under-16 accounts and the commission is expected to report later this year.
57 Articles
57 Articles
The SPD calls for a ban on social media for children under 14 years of age. The opposition and coalition partners are skeptical. The Union wants "differentiated solutions".
derwesten.de
The SPD calls for a strict social media ban to protect children – serious penalties are threatened in case of violations.
On February 15, 2026, the SPD published a position paper or pierced it to the media, in which it demands a staggered ban or a strong regulation of social media platforms for minors. For young people under 14 years of age, a complete social media ban is demanded. Allegedly, this is about the protection of children and young people – but in practice one is heading towards the abolition of anonymity in the social networks. The paper is not (so far)…
The SPD wants to ban social media for under 14-year-olds and to limit algorithms in general. Minister of Justice Hubig (SPD) defends the advance – even in the CDU, the willingness to impose stricter age limits is growing.
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